Learning how to plant pumpkin seeds and grow your patch is a vital achievable skill. Homegrown pumpkins can be time-intensive but the rewards are worth it, here’s what you need before you plant your pumpkin seeds.

Pumpkin seeds inside of wooden spoon near cut pumpkins

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How to plant your seeds

It is important to understand that pumpkins are best grown in full sunlight, and choosing a location that will receive at least 6 hours of full sun is key.

  • Prepare your pumpkin seeds: When using seeds freshly removed from an already-grown pumpkin, there’s some prepping you’ll need to do before you plant them back on the ground. Cleaning the seeds is the first step, as they have a better chance to grow and flower.
  • Good planting site: Good soil and, a great location to plant will ensure a great harvest. Be sure to pick a planting site with full sun with well drainage soil, your pumpkins will not thrive in soggy wet soil. Pumpkins will need room to grow. Make sure your space is big enough, due to the large vines, it is best to plant your pumpkin seeds a few feet apart.
  • Sow your seeds on the ground: Proper sowing practices should be observed. Your pumpkins will grow best when you plant the seeds about an inch deep into the ground. Young seedlings need protection from pests, and weather until they are established. You can grow them in pots until established provided you start with a large enough pot and the right soil blend.
Yellow squash on the vine

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Growing tips

Water early in the morning

Watering is important with pumpkins as their vines can be susceptible to disease. The best watering time is early morning as hot weather can dry the pumpkins. Adding mulch can help keep your pumpkins hydrated.

Prune the vines

Once the vines start showing, it is okay to start pruning them a bit. Pruning the vines is a great way to help with space. Only prune when the vines are big enough and beginning to occupy space.

Keep pests away

When the plants are still in their early stage, monitor the seeds as they are susceptible to pests and insects. As your plants start to flower, you may notice aphids. Aphids will cause leaves to wilt. The safest way to remove pests is to by watering them with a garden hose every morning or you can also use store-bought insect spray.

Ripe orange pumpkin grown in garden

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Once your seeds are planted it will take around 90 to 120 days to fully develop. Being patient is crucial with these plants.

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